Night Markets — Taiwan's Soul

Taiwan's night markets (夜市, Yèshì) are not just food markets — they are a way of life, the pulsating heart of Taiwanese society. Every evening from 5–6 PM, streets and squares transform into steaming, sizzling, fragrant paradises. Hundreds of stalls offer everything Taiwanese cuisine has to offer — and at prices that leave Europeans speechless.

The Best Night Markets in Taipei

• Shilin Night Market (士林夜市): The largest and most famous — touristy but deservedly legendary. Two floors: clothing and games upstairs, the food court labyrinth downstairs. Must-try: XL-Chicken Cutlet (比臉大的雞排 — "bigger than your face"), Oyster Omelette, Stinky Tofu. Metro: Jiantan Station.
• Raohe Street Night Market (饒河街夜市): Compact, more authentic, less crowded than Shilin. At the entrance: the legendary Black Pepper Bun (胡椒餅) — fresh from the clay oven, crispy, with a juicy pork filling. The line is worth it! Metro: Songshan Station.
• Ningxia Night Market (寧夏夜市): THE food night market for connoisseurs. Smaller selection, but every stall at the highest level. Famous for Taro Balls, Liu Yu Zi (fried innards — bold but delicious), and the best Oyster Vermicelli in town. Metro: Shuanglian Station.
• Tonghua / Linjiang Night Market (通化/臨江街夜市): The locals' insider tip in Da'an. Hardly any tourists, best prices, authentic atmosphere. Perfect after a visit to Taipei 101 (5 min walk).

Must-Try at the Night Markets

• Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶): Invented in Taiwan! Black milk tea with tapioca pearls. 40–60 TWD (1–2€). The best chains: 50嵐 (50 Lan), CoCo, 春水堂 (Chun Shui Tang — the inventor).
• Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐): Smells like a forgotten refrigerator, tastes fantastic. Fermented tofu, fried and crispy, with pickled cabbage and spicy sauce. THE most polarizing dish in Taiwan — courage is rewarded!
• Gua Bao (割包): Taiwan's "burger": Soft, steamed bun with braised pork belly, pickled vegetables, peanut powder, and cilantro. Brilliantly simple.
• Scallion Pancake (蔥抓餅): Crispy-fluffy dough pancake with scallions, optionally with egg, cheese, or basil. The perfect snack.
• Grilled Squid (烤魷魚): Whole squid on the grill, brushed with teriyaki sauce. Tender and flavorful.